Comparing cremation prices: How to find an affordable direct cremation

Posted on December 12, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

We are price-conscious, price-comparison consumers today. In a short era, technology has changed many of our consumer habits. These days we use a number of websites and mobile apps to compare prices for major purchases. And this trend has now impacted on the funeral industry. An industry that has price-gouged consumers due to the mystery and misery that surrounds the purchase of funeral services. So, how can you compare cremation prices?

What options are available to compare cremation prices?

There are several options you can use to compare cremation costs.

#1 You can phone around a few local funeral homes and ask for prices.

All funeral homes are required by federal law to provide you with funeral prices when you make an inquiry. They should be able to provide you with a copy of their General Price List. This can be time-consuming and a tad frustrating, as not all funeral homes will give you a simple price over the phone.

#2 You can use a funeral comparison concierge service

Everest’s Funeral Planning & Concierge Service will provide a price-comparison report for you, from up to 8 funeral homes with your specified zip code or mileage radius. However, they charge a $29 fee for this service.

#3 Use an online funeral price-comparison website

There are an array of funeral price comparison websites today. These provide a platform for consumers to find and check prices from funeral homes in a given area. However, there are a few issues with these websites to consider. Firstly, not all websites inclusively include ALL funeral homes in an area. So, you may not see a true reflection of all local cremation prices.

Secondly, some of these websites monetize their platform by offering promoted listing for funeral homes that will pay. This means you again may not see a true ‘un-biased’ representation of local cremation providers and prices.

If you are looking to compare cremation costs, the likelihood is that you want to ensure you do not overpay for a service. Often, we no prior knowledge of arranging a funeral, we enter the process seeking guidance.

#4 Connect with the DFS Memorials network of low-cost cremation providers

DFS Memorials vetted and recruited local independent cremation service providers that met the criteria of offering their local community a ‘best price’ direct cremation. So, the DFS Memorials website has conducted the price-comparison (to make it easier for you) and can connect you directly with a local, affordable cremation provider.

All local providers and their direct cremation prices are disclosed online.

How do you find the ‘best value’ cremation service?

Best value cremation Cheap is sometimes cheap. Corners are cut to offer budget services or products. “You get what you pay for” as we will often quip. However, overpaying for a service can be annoying.

As mentioned above, funeral costs have long been shrouded in some mystery, allowing the industry to confuse families overpricing.

Why pay $2,700 for a simple direct cremation, when the exact same service can be conducted for $795? So this is where the term “best value” or “best price” comes into play. It is about comparing the exact same service package. Cremation service costs can range significantly, and you can save money just by ensuring you have compared what prices are on offer locally.

Why choose direct cremation?

A direct cremation is the industry term for a simple cremation without any ceremony. It is the least expensive funeral option and the most simple, no-fuss option. As the cremation rate continues to grow, it is largely direct cremation that families are choosing. Why? Namely cost, but also just out of the notion of simplicity.

A direct cremation can be arranged in most cities for between $500 – $1,000. To find out your local direct cremation price, visit your state and city on DFS Memorials.

How much does a cremation cost in Cleveland, OH? $995

Posted on October 28, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral. Although the cremation rate in Ohio has typically been below the national rate, the demand for low cost funeral alternatives is changing the way many families today approach death care.

Changing death care rituals and economic reasons for choosing cremation

Deciding whether to bury or cremate is very much a personal choice. For some families, the decision is dictated by the budget they have for a funeral. A cremation service will cost much less than a traditional burial funeral. On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service. More families are leaning towards cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately. A cremation can be performed and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

The economy has certainly impacted on how we manage death care today. Many families simply cannot, or do not, want to spend unnecessarily on funeral costs. A cremation provides a simple, efficient and economical means to conduct a disposition.

So how much does a cremation cost in Cleveland?

Firstly it is important to state that cremation prices in Cleveland DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for. Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory. The Cremation Association of North America (CANA) quotes the average cost of cremation at $3,200, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Cleveland.

A direct cremation can be conducted in Cleveland for as little as $895. This is what is known as a “direct cremation”. No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted. The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn. If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

What type of cremation services are available?

direct-cremation You can select from a range of cremation services and packages. These will start with a basic cremation without any additional services, which is the cheapest type of cremation package. You can have a full-service funeral that is followed by the cremation, a cremation followed by a memorial service, or just a viewing followed by a cremation. The change in the funeral industry today is the move towards ‘personalization’ and making a funeral service that fits the needs of the family, whatever they are.

Comparing cremation costs in Cleveland, OH

As mentioned the cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – but from different Cleveland cremation service providers. Ensure that you compare like-for-like services. Some cremation service providers include crematory fees and cremation container costs in a direct cremation package, and others do not always include these fees. Death certificate fees and cremation permits are often additional ‘cash advance’ items.

How do I know that the cremated remains I get back are my loved one’s remains?

This is probably the most common cremation question we are asked. Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks have to be made along the way. The cremation retort has to be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time. The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements, etc) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Cleveland

As mentioned above, there are laws in place regarding the cremation of human remains. A cremation cannot be performed until a cremation permit is issued by the medical examiner’s office. The legal next of kin must sign a Cremation Authorization Form. It is not necessary to embalm a body for cremation and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until the cremation is performed. The funeral home will generally store the body for up to 5 days in refrigerated storage at no extra charge. If the cremation does not go ahead within 5 days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

Cremation offers some greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have them returned. You can, of course, inter them in a grave plot or niche. However, you can choose to store them in an urn at home or scatter the cremated remains. There are also options such as having cremation artifacts made from cremated remains such as cremation diamonds, glass jewelry, birdbaths, and paintings.

Preplanning an affordable cremation service in Cleveland

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price now. This may depend upon your age at the time of setting up a prepaid cremation plan. A cremation plan can be set up using an insurance policy where the funds are put into a trust. You can also opt to preplan your cremation service without prepaying. This ensures that your surviving family can proceed with arrangements at the time of need, without having to worry about completing the paperwork or make difficult decisions. The money to pay for the cremation can be put aside in a POD account (Payable on Death) which your beneficiary can draw out upon death immediately without probate.

The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral. If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you. Social Security pay out a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. To find out what may be available you should contact your County Human Services Department.

If the deceased is at the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, you will need to employ the services of a funeral director to collect your loved one and take him or her into their care for funeral services. Only a licensed funeral director can collect a body from the Medical Examiners’ office, once the deceased body is ready to be released by the coroner.

The ME for Cuyahoga County is located at 11001 Cedar Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone (216) 721-5610

DFS Memorials’ low-cost cremation services are available to residents of Cleveland Heights, Detroit-Shoreway, Kamm’s Corners, Lakewood, Little Italy, Ohio City, Shaker Square & Larchmere, Tremont, University Circle and Cuyahoga County, Geauga County, Lake County, Lorain County, and Medina County.

Understanding Direct Cremation: What is a direct cremation?

Posted on September 29, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

We are all becoming more familiar with cremation these days as the cremation rate increases in the U.S. and more people opt for cremation as a disposition alternative to a burial. But people are not yet familiar with the term ‘direct cremation’.

What is a Direct Cremation?

A direct cremation sometimes referred to as an immediate cremation, is when a cremation is performed with minimal services from a funeral home and no service is conducted. It is what is known in the funeral trade as a very basic cremation disposition.

The deceased is collected directly from the place of death and transported to the funeral home and/or crematory, the necessary documentation is completed, the mandatory waiting period passes and the deceased is cremated. The cremated remains are returned to the family within 3-7 days.

Many funeral homes package a direct cremation offering and glamorize it with such names as A Simple Tribute, A Family Farewell, A Simple Goodbye, The Legacy Farewell, & Simply Farewell. These names all symbolize a minimal service, minimal fuss disposition package – something many of us are opting for today!

Saving money on the cost of a casket

For the purposes of the cremation, a basic cremation container is used to house the deceased’s body. This is all that is legally required and a suitable “rigid, combustible” container is most often a sturdy cardboard container. This means that no casket is required and eliminates the expense of purchasing a casket. This alone saves around $1,000 – $4,000 in basic costs for the disposition.

If you did wish to have a brief family viewing before the cremation process, a funeral home can usually facilitate this using a rental casket or even a bed laid out in a viewing room.

The most affordable funeral option

A direct cremation can be considered one of the most inexpensive and affordable cremation options. As only the minimal services of a funeral director are required and substitute funeral merchandise can be used, costs can be kept lower. The cremated remains are generally returned to the family in a temporary cremation container, which can be a cardboard or plastic urn. Of course, the family can opt to upgrade and select a wooden or ceramic urn if desired for an additional cost. Some funeral homes serving families with direct cremations even offer to carry out an ash scattering or sea scattering these days for a small nominal fee.

What documentation must be completed legally before a cremation can be performed?

In order for any cremation to be performed a ‘Cremation Authorization Form‘ must be completed and signed by the legal next of kin. A cremation permit must be obtained from the local county, and in some states, the coroner must sign the cremation permit. This is largely to ensure there is no suspect reason why a body should not be cremated destroying all physical evidence.

There is a mandatory waiting period in all states before a cremation can be performed. In most states this is 24-hours, but there are a number of states where a 48-hour mandatory waiting period must be observed.

Part 2 : How much does a direct cremation cost?

Affordable cremation services in Staten Island, NY – $485 direct cremation

Posted on August 10, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Americans are demanding more affordable death care options. With the high cost of traditional funerals and especially burial plot costs in NYC, cremation is proving an alternative disposition choice that is more affordable.

Why is cremation more affordable?

In simple terms, a cremation eliminates several services and funeral products that usually have a high price-tag. You do not need a casket for a cremation service.

Although some funeral homes offer rental caskets if you wish to have a funeral service prior to the cremation. You do not need a burial vault or cemetery plot, and embalming is not required for cremation. Eliminating these few things can reduce the cost by between $3,000 – $8,000.

Cemetery plots in NYC are expensive due to the shortage of space. A typical plot can cost around $14,000. This adds a huge cost to a funeral bill.

What does a cremation cost in Staten Island?

The price of cremation varies. Firstly, it depends on what type of cremation service you select. A cremation funeral is very like a traditional funeral, but the deceased is cremated after the service, so now the burial plot is required. A cremation funeral will generally cost from around $3,600 depending on the type of ceremony, the purchase of a casket, and the funeral home selected.

A cremation memorial is where the deceased is cremated prior to holding a memorial service with the cremation urn. This type of cremation service is usually less than a cremation funeral.

What is a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is the industry term for a simple cremation with no ceremony or services. This is the least expensive cremation option. The price for a direct cremation in Staten Island differs from different funeral homes, but you can arrange a direct cremation for as little as $485.

Why is the crematory fee added to a funeral home’s direct cremation service fee?

cremation services In NY, a funeral home is not allowed to own and operate a crematory. All crematories are not-for-profit operations. This means that a funeral director has to pay the crematory fee as a ‘third-party’ fee and therefore must charge the fee separate to his basic service funeral charge.

There are several crematories operating throughout NYC and NJ that funeral homes use, and the prices vary for the crematory fee. The best value crematory fee is $140, but the price can be as much as $408, depending on the crematory used.

What additional fees are there to pay for a direct cremation in Staten Island?

There is a $40 NYC cremation permit charge, and the cost for the death certificate at $15. If the deceased passed away at home, there is an additional charge for a residential collection, as this requires an additional person. The additional fee is $150.

The other additional fee can be the mailing of cremated remains. The cost to mail the ashes is $40 to mail cremated remains within NYC and $75 to mail outside of the boroughs.

What are the legal requirements for a cremation to proceed?

As cremation is a very final disposition method, there are strict laws that govern the practice. The legal next of kin must sign a ‘Cremation Authorization Form’ before a cremation can proceed. The funeral director will file for the death certificate and permit to cremate. Once all this paperwork is in order, the cremation can be scheduled.

What can you do with the cremated remains after the direct cremation?

ash scattering The cremated remains are returned immediately to the family after a direct cremation. The family can choose to hold their own memorial service, or ash-scattering service is so desired. The ashes can be kept at home, or interred in a cremation niche, or family cemetery plot.

Scattering at sea in Staten Island can be added to a direct cremation package for an additional $290.

For more options about what to do with cremated remains and how to memorialize, check out our Memorialization and What to do with the Cremation Ashes section on the blog.

What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?

If the deceased was transferred to the ME, you need the services of a funeral director to collect the deceased and transfer them to the crematory. This can sometimes be an expedited service as the FD can collect all the permits and paperwork as he or she collects the deceased.

Is there any help with cremation costs in Staten Island?

Unfortunately, more families are finding themselves struggling with funeral expenses these days. NYC does offer a burial assistance program to NYC residents on low-income. You can download the form from the link here.

There is also the $255 Social Security lump-sum death benefit payment (if the deceased qualified).

Arranging a Direct Cremation in Houston, TX – $640

Posted on August 2, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral. Although the cremation rate in Texas has typically been below the national rate, the demand for low-cost funeral alternatives is changing the way many Texans approach death care.

This guide aims to help you understand how to arrange a cremation and save on funeral costs.

Economic reasons for choosing cremation

On average a cremation service is going to save you at least 40% on the cost of a burial, sometimes you can save as much as 60% on the cost of a burial service. More families are leaning towards cremation as it does offer greater flexibility. The funeral service does not have to go ahead immediately. A cremation can be performed and then a service held at a later date convenient to the family.

What is the cost of a direct cremation in Houston?

Firstly it is important to state that cremation prices in Houston DO vary quite considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for. Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory. Houston has become very competitive for affordable cremation services and you will find a number of cremation providers offering direct cremation packages in Houston for between $640 – $3,000.

direct-cremation A basic cremation can be conducted in Houston for $640. This is what is known as a “direct cremation”. No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted.

The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn. If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

Call DFS Memorials now on (713) 309-6059 to arrange a direct cremation in Houston for $640

What type of cremation services are available?

You can select from a range of cremation services and packages. These will start with a basic cremation without any additional services, which is the cheapest type of cremation package. You can have a full-service funeral that is followed by the cremation, a cremation followed by a memorial service, or just a viewing followed by a cremation. The change in the funeral industry today is the move towards ‘personalization’ and making a funeral service that fits the needs of the family, whatever they are.

How do I know that the cremated remains I get back are my loved one’s remains?

cremation-service-houston This is probably the most common cremation question we are asked. Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks have to be made along the way. The cremation retort has to be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time. The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements etc) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Houston

It is not necessary to embalm a body for cremation and refrigerated storage is used to preserve the body until the cremation is performed. The funeral home will generally store the body for up to 5 days in refrigerated storage at no extra charge. If the cremation does not go ahead within 5 days, an additional fee for storage may be incurred.

What can we do with the cremated remains?

ash-scattering-texas Cremation offers some greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have them returned. You can, of course, inter them in a grave plot or niche.

However, you can choose to store them in an urn at home or scatter the cremated remains.

There are also options such as having cremation artifacts made from cremated remains such as cremation diamonds, glass jewelry, birdbaths, and paintings.

Preplanning an affordable direct cremation service in Houston

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price of $640. This may depend upon your age at the time of setting up a prepaid cremation plan. A cremation plan can be set up using an insurance policy where the funds are put into a trust. You can also opt to preplan your cremation service without prepaying. This ensures that your surviving family can proceed with arrangements at the time of need, without having to worry about completing the paperwork or make difficult decisions. The money to pay for the cremation can be put aside in a POD account (Payable on Death) which your beneficiary can draw out upon death immediately without probate.

Can an overweight body be cremated?

A standard cremation at the inclusive cremation cost of $640 is for a person who weighed up to 300 pounds. Over this weight, there is an additional charge as additional work is required to prepare the body, reinforce the cremation container and extra gas usage. The additional amount will depend upon the weight of the deceased.

The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral. If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you. Social Security pays out a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. To find out what may be available you should contact Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery County Human Services Departments.

DFS Memorials low-cost cremation services are available to residents all residents of Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston, Liberty, Waller, Chambers, Austin, and San Jacinto counties. Large cities we service include Houston, Pearland, Conroe, Deer Park, Friendswood, Galveston, Lake Jackson, La Porte, League City, Missouri City, Sugar Land, Texas City, and The Woodlands. Surrounding cities included in our service area include: Alvin, Angleton, Bellaire, Clute, Dickinson, Freeport, Galena Park, Humble, Jacinto City, Katy, La Marque, Richmond, Rosenberg, South Houston, Stafford, and West University Place.

*death certificates not included in basic direct cremation package

This package at $640 is available when the deceased is held in morgue facilities, either at the Medical Examiners or at a hospital morgue. Additional fees may apply for a residential or nursing home collection.

How much does a cremation cost in Dayton, OH?

Posted on July 20, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation trend is changing the way we think about arranging a funeral. Although the cremation rate in Ohio has typically been below the national rate, the demand for low-cost funeral alternatives is changing the way many families today approach death care.

Changing death care rituals and economic reasons for choosing cremation

So how much does a cremation cost in Dayton?

Firstly it is important to state that cremation prices in Dayton DO vary considerably between funeral homes, and depending on what type of cremation service you opt for. Not all funeral homes have their own crematory but will use the services of a local crematory. The Cremation Association of North America (CANA) quotes the average cost of cremation at $3,200, however, it is possible to find much lower-priced cremation services in Dayton.

A basic cremation can be conducted in Dayton for around $950*. This is what is known as a “direct cremation”. No services are performed, the deceased is collected, transported to the funeral facility, prepared for cremation and the cremation is conducted. The cremated remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic urn. If desired the family can arrange a brief final goodbye viewing at the funeral home.

What type of cremation services are available?

Comparing cremation costs in Dayton, OH

As mentioned the cost of a cremation can vary enormously – for the exact same service – but from different cremation service providers. Ensure that you compare like-for-like services. Some cremation service providers include crematory fees and cremation container costs in a direct cremation package, and others do not always include these fees. Death certificate fees and cremation permits are often additional ‘cash advance’ items.

How do I know that the cremated remains I get back are my loved one’s remains?

Understanding the legal requirements for cremation in Dayton

What can we do with the cremated remains?

cremation-memorials-dayton Cremation offers some greater flexibility in what you can do with the cremated remains once you have them returned. You can, of course, inter them in a grave plot or niche. However, you can choose to store them in an urn at home or scatter the cremated remains. There are also options such as having cremation artifacts made from cremated remains such as cremation diamonds, glass jewelry, birdbaths, and paintings.

Preplanning an affordable cremation service

If you wish to preplan a simple cremation you can lock in a low-cost cremation price. This may depend upon your age at the time of setting up a prepaid cremation plan. A cremation plan can be set up using an insurance policy where the funds are put into a trust. You can also opt to preplan your cremation service without prepaying. This ensures that your surviving family can proceed with arrangements at the time of need, without having to worry about completing the paperwork or make difficult decisions. The money to pay for the cremation can be put aside in a POD account (Payable on Death) which your beneficiary can draw out upon death immediately without probate.

The deceased had no life insurance – is there any help with cremation costs?

It is sadly a reality that more folks are passing without leaving the means to pay for their funeral. If you are faced with this situation, you need to explore what help may be available to you. Social Security pays out a $255 lump sum death benefit (if you qualify) and your funeral director can assist you with this.

The support for indigent burials differs so much by state and county. To find out what may be available you should contact Montgomery County Human Services Departments.

DFS Memorials low-cost cremation services are available to residents all residents of Greene County, Darke County, Montgomery County, Miami County, Clark County, Shelby County, and Champaign County.

*death certificates not included in basic direct cremation package

Understanding cremation costs in Connecticut

Posted on July 20, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

The cremation rate continues to rise, with more families considering a cremation service as an alternative to a burial service. So how much does a cremation cost in Connecticut? And how can you save money on funeral expenses by arranging a cremation service?

The national average cost for a cremation funeral service in 2017 was $6,260 [NFDA: 2018 Cremation & Burial Report]. This is for a cremation funeral where the deceased is cremated following a funeral service. A cremation memorial service is usually less expensive, as cremation is conducted before the funeral service.

So, let’s have a look at what you can expect for cremation memorial costs across Connecticut.

What can you expect to pay for cremation in Hartford?

The cost of funerals is a little above average in Connecticut. Funeral service providers report that gas prices are higher than average, making cremation prices higher than in other parts of the country.

The average price for a cremation memorial service in Hartford is $3,863*, with the average price for a simple, direct cremation service coming in at just under $3,000. This does not account for the fact that there are several funeral homes offering a direct cremation for around $2,000.

The price of cremation in New Haven, CT

The average cremation memorial in New Haven costs $3,718*, with surveys reporting the average price of direct cremation at $2,692*.

Cremation costs in Bridgeport, CT

The average price for a cremation memorial service in Bridgeport is $3,409*, with the average cost for a cremation reported at $2,370. However, the lowest cost for a direct cremation service is $2,000. This makes a direct cremation the most affordable funeral option in Fairfield county.

There are around 200 funeral homes across Connecticut with annual revenue of around $200M.

CT Funeral Market

* Prices obtained from online funeral survey 2018 – Parting

Cremation costs in Queens, NY – just $485 + crematory fee

Posted on June 20, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Are you concerned about funeral costs? This brief guide to funeral and cremation costs in Queens, NY can help you understand the differences in price for a funeral, and more importantly, how you can arrange a simple, basic cremation for as little as $485.00.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Queens?

These days we are discerning consumers, very mindful of costs, and people are now realizing they can price-shop for funeral services. Why should we not ask how much it costs?

The Internet offers a great tool to research funeral costs from the comfort of your own home. Unfortunately, not all funeral homes have websites or put their prices online, so we have put this guide together to outline average funeral and cremation costs in Queens for you.

The average cost of a traditional funeral in Queens is $6,841*, although the lowest price is $3,660.

So how do cremation costs compare in Queens?

Cremation offers a cheaper and more flexible alternative to a traditional burial, and can therefore significantly reduce funeral costs.

No casket, cemetery plot or burial vault is required, immediately reducing some of the most expensive purchases related to funeral expenses.

The average price for a cremation funeral service in Queens is $3,915*.

Direct cremation services in Queens, NY

A direct cremation is the funeral industry term for a ‘simple cremation’. Only the cremation service is provided by the funeral home. No ceremony or funeral services are provided by the funeral home. The deceased is collected, cremated and the remains returned to the family in a basic urn.

Direct cremation offers families lower-cost funeral services and more control over the time and type of memorial ceremonial services they desire. A memorial service can be held in a place of worship, a community venue or even outdoors. The service can be conducted with, or without, the cremation urn present, and can even take the form of an ash-scattering ceremony or interment in a cremation niche or scattering garden.

A basic direct cremation is available in Queens for $485, although the average price for a direct cremation is $1,969. To help families arrange affordable cremation services we have selected only family-owned cremation services providers who can offer a direct cremation for just $485.

Please note that as New York laws prohibit a funeral home owning a crematory, all crematories are separately operated. This means that the funeral home must charge the crematory fee as a “third party” fee. It is not part of their GPL pricing, it is an additional fee that the funeral director pays to the crematory.

The crematory fee is $180.00 and the NYC cremation permit fee is $40. With a death certificate and processing fee, this means that the total package price for a direct cremation in Queens is $726.50.

Direct cremation means a family can manage to conduct dignified funeral services for as little as $726.50 complete!

Call now on (718) 395-3142 now to arrange a low-cost cremation

Are there are additional fees to the $485 cremation?

For a cremation to be conducted a NYC cremation permit must be issued by the county. Death certificates are an additional cost, as these are issued by the county, and are a third-party expense. Death certificates cost $15 for the first certificate and $10 for each additional copy issued. As mentioned above the standard crematory fee is $180. If an expedited cremation is required, this fee may increase.

How do I know that I am getting the remains of my loved one back?

This is one of the most frequent questions families ask about cremation.

Strict laws govern the cremation of human remains and identity checks must be made all along the way.

The cremation retort must be completely cleared following a cremation and only one cremation can be performed at a time. The remains are cleared into a machine that filters out any metal parts (tooth fillings, hip replacements) and then ground into the fine ‘dust’ that is returned as cremation ashes.

What if I am not sure about cremation or the family cannot agree about cremation?

Cremation is such a final disposition, you do need to ensure that you are completely sure that this IS the ‘right’ disposition choice for you. Certain laws are in place to ensure this final disposition can only proceed if the legal next of kin has authorized it. A Cremation Authorization Form must be signed by the legal next of kin, and in the case of children, many funeral directors will require all children sign.

You can authorize an agent for your final disposition or sign the authorization when you preplan a cremation.

What can you do with the cremated remains?

The options of what you can do with the cremated remains of your loved one are one of the reasons cremation is becoming more popular. You can, of course, just choose to inter the remains in a cemetery plot. You can inter the remains in a niche or columbarium, or you can keep the ashes at home. Keepsake urns even enable you to disperse the ashes between several family members or choose to scatter some and retain a ‘keepsake’ memorial.

Ash scattering is also more common these days and there are many options for how you can create a befitting ash scattering ceremony.

Can I preplan a direct cremation at an affordable cost?

Yes. You can preplan a simple direct cremation service. This is generally funded through an insurance product that will cover this cost when the need arises. All monies are secured in a trust fund.

How quickly can a cremation be performed?

It generally takes a few days to make the necessary arrangements, complete all the legal paperwork and schedule the cremation. However, expedited services can be arranged if required. In New York, there is a mandatory 24-hour wait period after death before a cremation can be conducted.

What do I do if I cannot even afford a cremation?

There is very little ‘free’ money to help families with funeral costs. What is available is constantly changing due to budget constraints, and varies by county. In NYC there is some funding available to support low-income families with funeral costs. As up to $900 can be paid, this can enable a family struggling financially to cover the cost of a simple cremation. Check out NYC Burial Assistance Program.

There is also a $255 lump-sum social security death benefit payment if the deceased qualifies, and your funeral director can help you claim this. So you may find that a low-cost cremation at $485 with DFS Memorials is a dignified, yet affordable, disposition alternative if your family is struggling financially.

If you have further questions about cremation, feel free to call us on (718) 395-3142 and we will be happy to try and help you.

*Funeral prices obtained from online funeral price survey website May 2019

Affordable direct cremation in Alexandria, LA – $994

Posted on March 15, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

Do you need a low-cost funeral alternative? Funerals can be expensive, and more families are finding themselves unable to meet the high costs associated with traditional funeral services.

At DFS Memorials, we can help you save $$$ on the cost of a funeral or cremation.

We offer a simple and affordable direct cremation service package for just $994. This is the best price direct cremation in Central Louisiana.

What is the average cost of a funeral in Alexandria?

According to online funeral price comparison resources, a traditional funeral service in Alexandria costs $6,228.* This price does not include any cemetery fees. DFS Memorials in Alexandria offer a funeral burial package for $2,800 (including a 20-gauge steel casket).

How much does a cremation service cost?

Families are turning to cremation services as cremation offers a more affordable and flexible alternative to a traditional burial service. No cemetery plot, burial vault, casket or embalming is required for a cremation service. Eliminating these can save thousands of dollars. Also, cremation can offer more flexibility for the family in making funeral arrangements. A funeral service does not have to be held immediately, and can be arranged after a cremation has been conducted.

Compare funeral & cremation average costs

Credit: Parting 2019 – Average funeral & Cremation prices

Direct cremation is proving the preferred choice for families seeking simplicity and affordability. Direct cremation is when the funeral home offer cremation only, with no ceremony or services at the funeral home.

After a direct cremation, the family can make their own arrangements to conduct a memorial service, when they feel it best works for them, and in a place of their choosing. This, again, helps to save money on funeral expenses.

Cremation services will range in price, but the average cost for a cremation service is in the region of $2,000 – $3,000. A direct cremation service can be arranged in Alexandria for as little as $994.

What do you need to understand when arranging a cremation?

Cremation is a very final disposition of human remains. For this reason, there is legislation governing how a cremation must be conducted. Before a cremation can proceed, the legal next of kin must all sign a Cremation Authorization Form. The coroner will issue a permit to cremate once all legal requirements are met.

What if the deceased is at the coroner’s office?

If your loved one is held at the morgue, you will still need the services of a licensed funeral professional. As he or she will need to liaise with the coroner to obtain permits, the body can generally be released into the care of the funeral director at the same time that the Parish permits are issued.

If you have further questions about a cremation, or need immediate assistance, please call Randy on (318) 431-3929. He has 35 years’ experience in the funeral profession and is ready to serve your family at your time of need.

What you need to know about cremation services and costs in California in 2019

Posted on February 19, 2019 by Cremation Advisor

What is the cremation rate in California?

California is ranked as the state in the U.S. with the highest population (39,766,830 in 2018) which represents 12% of the total population.

The states in the West also have some of the highest cremation rates, with California ranking at 14^th, and a cremation rate of 63.4% in 2015 (latest state by state data). This is above the national cremation rate, which reached 53.5% in 2017.

So, it is apparent that cremation is a preferred alternative to burial for families across the West Coast. How has this affected the funeral industry in California? And, more importantly, has this made cremation a more affordable option for Californians?

The average traditional burial funeral service in California can run to $10,000 or more, whereas the average price for a cremation service is between $600 to $3,000. This means cremation services offer a more affordable, and more flexible, alternative to traditional funeral services.

How much does it cost for a cremation in Los Angeles?

As mentioned above, cremations can cost between $600 to $3,000. This can depend on the type of cremation service selected, and the cremation service provider chosen. A direct cremation is the cheapest cremation option.

Online sources quote that in LA, the average cost for a cremation memorial service is $2,781*, and the average cost for a direct cremation is $1,524*.

In the Greater Los Angeles area, a direct cremation service can be conducted for as little as $625. A direct cremation is a basic cremation without any ceremony or services conducted by the funeral home or mortuary. The deceased is collected directly from the place of death and transported to the funeral home or crematory. The cremation is conducted, and the cremated remains then returned to the family.

The chart here provides a sample of direct cremation prices from a selection of Los Angeles direct cremation service providers in 2019.

Compare cremation costs in Los Angeles

How do cremation prices compare in the Bay Area?

The Bay Area, including San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, and Stockton, compares very similarly to LA, with cremation prices ranging from $650 to $3,300. Marin County has one of the highest cremation rates in the country, and cremation is certainly a popular choice for many Bay Area residents. There are several cremation companies that have chosen to focus on the demand for simple and low-cost direct cremation, and offer arrangements without the need to even visit a funeral home. So, you will find a number of direct cremation providers competing for this affordable cremation market and offering a direct cremation service for between $650 and $850.

Compare cremation prices in San Francisco

What can you expect to pay for cremation in Sacramento?

The average cost for a direct cremation in Sacramento is $1,642*, although again, there are cremation providers offering lower-cost direct cremation. The best price for affordable direct cremation in Sacramento is around $695.

Cremation costs in Northern California.

The basic cost rises somewhat in Northern California, and a simple direct cremation service will cost in and around $995 in Redding and in the region of $1,400 in Chico.

Direct cremation in Southern California.

San Diego has a high cremation rate and a low direct cremation price. The average price for a direct cremation is $1,358*, although the lowest cost is $600. As the cremation market is competitive in San Diego, there are several funeral homes offering a direct cremation service for under $1,000. The chart here shows a sample of direct cremation prices from providers who offer a service for under $1,000.

Compare cremation costs in San Diego

Where is the cheapest place to be cremated in California?

Southern California proves to be the cheapest place to be cremated. In Los Angeles and San Diego, direct cremation services are available for between $600 – $625. Being that both these cities have the largest populations in California, there will be growing interest from funeral service providers to capture more of the cremation market, as the cremation rate continues to climb. So, it is possible that the cremation market will become even more competitive and drive prices lower.

What laws govern cremation services in California?

Each state has a funeral licensing body. It is their responsibility to ensure that state laws pertaining to the disposition of a body are correctly implemented and to conduct inspections and licensed establishments.

Before cremation can be performed, a ‘Declaration for Disposition of Cremated Remains Form’ must be legally signed. This must be signed by the legal immediate next-of-kin, or if you are preplanning, you can sign the form for yourself. This form is a written authorization for the cremation to proceed. A contract with the cremation service provider should also specify the location and time of disposition, and an agreement to pay the cost for the cremation service.

The funeral director must obtain a ‘Permit for Disposition of Human Remains VS 9’ from the county health department. Commonly referred to as a cremation permit. Once all the legal paperwork is completed, the cremation process can go ahead.

According to California law, there is no requirement for a casket for cremation, but a ‘combustible cremation container’ must be used for the purpose of cremation.

How long does cremation take in California?

A cremation can proceed when all the required legal paperwork and permits are authorized and completed. Firstly, the death certificate must be obtained. How long this takes can depend on the doctor signing the death certificate off, and the nature of the cause of death. Once, a death certificate is obtained and the Cremation Authorization Form is in order, the funeral director can obtain the permit to cremate from the county.

Generally, this all takes a few days, and the cremated remains should be available for you to collect within 7 to 10 days after the deceased was taken into the care of the cremation services provider.

Can you deal directly with a crematory in California?

In California, the use of a funeral home is not required by law. Therefore, if you so choose, you can deal directly with a crematory to handle the cremation. If you are not using the services of a funeral director, you would need to apply for, and file, the death certificate and obtain the Permit for Disposition from the county registrar.

Arranging a direct cremation & conducting a family memorial or ash-scattering in California

More families are opting to choose direct cremation and then perform their own memorial service. This is a significant way to make death care affordable and personalized. Once the funeral home has completed the direct cremation and the family has the ashes returned, a memorial can be organized at a time and place that is appropriate and meaningful. All this can be arranged at a fraction of the cost of a cremation funeral or a burial funeral with a funeral home.

What is the cost of an ash-scattering at sea off the coast of California?

California has an expansive coastline and therefore attracts many residents who wish to perform a scattering of cremated remains at the coast, or in the Pacific Ocean. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires a sea scattering to be performed 3 nautical miles out at sea.

There are numerous charter services from Southern and Central California. The cost for a sea scattering will vary, depending on whether it is accompanied or unaccompanied. Unaccompanied scattering can start at around $200, especially if offered as an ‘add-on’ service by your cremation provider. Charters for groups to go out to conduct a sea scattering ceremony will again vary, depending on the size of the boat, people attending and how many hours at sea are requested.

What happens if you cannot afford a cremation in California?

Sadly, we are entering an era of ‘funeral poverty’ where too many families find themselves unprepared for funeral expenses. Counties generally have an obligation to cover the costs for indigent dispositions. However, there is very limited financial assistance for those that are low-income or simply living paycheck to paycheck.

A low-cost direct cremation is the most inexpensive option, but most cremation providers will require payment in full before they will collect the deceased and transfer he or she into their care.

If you have any further questions about cremation services in California, call your nearest DFS Memorials affordable cremation provider, who will be happy to assist you.

Sources:

The cremation rate in California

Population data

*Prices obtained from Parting funeral comparison website February 2019